April 26, 2009

Chip Vaughn, safety, Wake Forest

Played both safety positions in a Wake Forest defense that was star studded, including fourth overall pick LB Aaron Curry and CB Alphonso Smith. Far better in run support and in that purpose, he is excellent. Looks to compete with Roman Harper at strong safety and at the least, play special teams. Prepped as a receiver and has those skills as a ball hawk, but his speed and recognition are not on par with a starting safety. For what it means in Gregg Williams' system, Vaughn will apparently start out at free safety behind Darren Sharper, Pierson Prioleau, and Usama Young. Ran significantly faster 4.36 at the combine.

The Saints have only drafted three players from Wake Forest before, and none since 1988: TE Greg Scales in the fifth round of the 1988 draft, WR Kenny Duckett in the third round of the 1982 draft, and DT John Snow in the 15th round of the team's initial 1967 draft.